The ox, as part of the peace offering, holds significant theological and ritualistic importance in the Old Testament sacrificial system. The peace offering, also known as the fellowship offering, is one of the five major offerings described in the Mosaic Law, primarily detailed in the book of Leviticus. The Hebrew term for peace offering is "zevah shelamim," which can be translated as "sacrifice of peace" or "sacrifice of well-being."

Biblical Context and Description

The peace offering is introduced in Leviticus 3, where the ox is mentioned as one of the acceptable animals for this type of sacrifice. Leviticus 3:1 states, "If one's offering is a peace offering and he offers an animal from the herd, whether male or female, he must present it without blemish before the LORD." The requirement for the animal to be without blemish underscores the necessity for purity and perfection in offerings made to God, symbolizing the worshiper's desire for a harmonious relationship with the Divine.

The peace offering is unique in that it is a voluntary act of worship, unlike the sin or guilt offerings, which are mandatory for atonement. It serves as an expression of thanksgiving, a fulfillment of a vow, or a freewill offering, as further elaborated in Leviticus 7:11-18. The offering signifies reconciliation and communion between the offerer, the priest, and God, often culminating in a communal meal shared by the participants.

Ritual Procedure

The ritual procedure for the peace offering involving an ox is detailed in Leviticus 3:2-5 : "He is to lay his hand on the head of his offering and slaughter it at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. Then Aaron’s sons the priests shall sprinkle the blood on all sides of the altar. From the peace offering he is to bring an offering made by fire to the LORD: the fat that covers the entrails, all the fat that is on them, the two kidneys with the fat on them by the loins, and the lobe of the liver, which he is to remove with the kidneys. Then Aaron’s sons are to burn it on the altar atop the burnt offering that is on the burning wood, as an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD."

The laying of hands on the animal's head symbolizes the identification of the offerer with the sacrifice, transferring the individual's intentions and desires to the offering. The sprinkling of blood around the altar signifies purification and consecration, while the burning of specific portions of the animal represents the offering being wholly dedicated to God.

Theological Significance

The ox, as a symbol of strength and service, reflects the worshiper's dedication and submission to God. The peace offering, with its emphasis on fellowship and thanksgiving, highlights the relational aspect of worship, where the offerer seeks to maintain or restore peace with God. This offering foreshadows the ultimate peace and reconciliation brought through Jesus Christ, who is described as our peace in Ephesians 2:14 : "For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility."

In the broader narrative of Scripture, the peace offering underscores the importance of gratitude, community, and the pursuit of a harmonious relationship with God. It serves as a reminder of the peace that believers are called to embody and share, both with God and with one another, through the sacrificial love demonstrated by Christ.